The “busiest wee bridge in Moray” is finally going to be replaced, after safety concerns delayed the project last year.
Plans to demolish the 90-year-old Seatown footbridge over the burn of Cullen and replace it with a crossing 65ft upstream were branded “dangerous” by neighbours.
Locals claimed that people crossing the bridge at the proposed location could be swept into the sea during high tides – prompting Moray Council to go back to the drawing board.
And yesterday, councillors approved a revised plan – installing the replacement crossing just 16ft from where the current bridge stands.
The new footbridge, linking Seatown to the golf course, will cost the council £418,000 to erect.
Last night Keith and Cullen councillor Ron Shepherd said safety concerns raised last year were largely unfounded, and explained the bridge had been repositioned so as not to interfere with residential sewage tanks.
He said: “It’s been sited alongside the current bridge because in its initial location we would have needed to lift septic tanks to begin construction.
“I think it must be the busiest wee bridge in Moray as so many people cross it to get to the golf course.
“The old bridge is badly needing replaced, it has become a hazard to children crossing as it is crumbling at the sides.
“Everybody is happy with where it’s going to be built now, and I’m delighted it was approved.”
Moray Council’s consultancy manger Dave Gowans confirmed that a planning application had been received and that ground works on the project were expected to be completed by the end of the year, with the deck installed early 2016.